The Alfa Romeo 158 debuted at Livorno in 1938 and got off to a great start, scoring a 1-2 for the Enzo Ferrari managed team. The car was powered by a 1.5 liter straight eight with a triple Weber carburettor and a twin-stage supercharger.

Designed by Gioachino Columbo, the 158 is still the most successful Grand Prix car of all time, with 47 wins from 54 outings. With the coming of the Second World War, a handful of Alfettas were hidden away in an Italian cheese factory to await the end of hostilities. By the time the championship kicked off in 1950 the car was still the best thing on the track.